By the end, Irene’s eyes were full of apology.
In her mind, if she hadn’t dragged Evan to White Crane Manor, he wouldn’t have crippled Wade Wei, and none of the Greenwater trouble would’ve happened afterward.
It’s not because of you. What’s meant to happen will happen—there’s no avoiding it.
Evan shook his head.
But that Daoist Baiyun sounds really scary. Are you sure there won’t be a problem? Maybe you should go hide somewhere for a while? Irene remembered what Master Greenwater said before he died, and felt Baiyun must be terrifyingly strong.
She really didn’t want Evan to get hurt because of her.
That’s nothing to worry about. No matter how strong he is, I’m stronger.
Irene rolled her eyes. "Yeah, yeah, you’re the strongest!"
Wow, I still feel like I’m dreaming! I actually met someone as amazing as you—does that mean nobody will ever dare bully me again? Irene practically jumped with excitement.
Being a flight attendant might sound glamorous, but she actually ran into plenty of problems at work.
Especially those self-important guys who think having a bit of money makes them special—they’re always getting handsy. Irene had dealt with plenty of people like that over the years, and was often bullied at work. But this time, she finally felt protected, and it warmed her heart.
By the way, I’ll keep this secret for you—I won’t tell anyone else. Stella probably doesn’t know yet, right? If she did, she’d totally overthink it and worry for no reason!
Irene made a firm promise to Evan.
When they got home, Stella Huang was watching TV on the couch. She looked up in surprise when Evan and Irene came in together. "Irene, didn’t you have an etiquette job today? You’re back early."
Yeah, it ended early today. I ran into Evan on the way back, so we came up together." Irene nodded and hurried to explain.
Stella glanced at Evan and thought for a moment before saying, "The TV station wants me to write a feature on Capitalview First High’s top students—it’s basically to help nominate you for the Capitalview City Three-Good Student award. If it goes well, you could win the title, and it would help you when you apply to college. Do you have time for an interview?"
There are only two spots for the Three-Good Student award each year. Capitalview Second and Third High never get it—it always goes to Capitalview First High and Peiying High.
Each school gets one slot, and the award is officially recorded—it’s a hidden asset for both now and the future. Plus, if you apply to local universities, you’ll get bonus points.
Stella was worried Evan might not realize how valuable the award was, so she quickly explained.
To her, the Three-Good Student award wasn’t just an honor—it was real wealth. She was surprised that Evan, who had even been personally recommended by the principal of Capitalview First High, could earn it.
That’s not really necessary. If I want to go to a school, I’ll just test in. Titles like Three-Good Student… Evan started to refuse.
Stuff like fame and small honors in the mortal world meant nothing to Evan.
But Evan hesitated, thinking of his mother Joy Zheng back in Whitewood County.
Growing up, Evan had never won any academic honors. The last time he’d gotten first place in the Seacrest Province Math Olympiad, Joy Zheng had been happy for ages.
To Joy Zheng, the honor Evan brought home was worth more than any amount of money.
What parent doesn’t want their kid to succeed?
Thinking of Joy Zheng, Evan couldn’t help but smile. He looked at Stella and nodded. "Then I’ll leave it to you."
Doing a few small things to make his mom happy wasn’t a bad idea.
Stella and Irene happened to catch Evan’s rare smile. It was so gentle that both of them felt their hearts tremble—it was almost too gentle to handle.
Especially Irene—now that she knew Evan was like a hidden master, she felt a little jealous and sour inside.
I wonder who he was thinking about!
Irene muttered to herself.
Stella nodded. "Let me know the details when you have time."
Just as Evan was about to head to his room, Stella’s phone rang. She picked up, exchanged a few words, and frowned. "I told you not to call me anymore!"
Fine… see you tonight…
Stella hung up, clearly annoyed. She glanced at Evan and asked, a little embarrassed, "Um, are you free tonight?"
"Sure," Evan nodded.
Irene raised her eyebrows, as if she guessed something. "Was that him calling you again?"
Yeah.
That guy is like a piece of sticky tape—so annoying!" Irene muttered, clearly knowing who it was.
So, I wanted to ask—if you’re free, could you come out with me tonight?
Our class is throwing a birthday party for the class monitor tonight. Everyone has to go…
Stella sighed, looking genuinely troubled by the whole thing.